Big In Japan

A Seattle rock band called Tennis Pro, able to get no traction in its hometown, takes a leap of faith and follows a veteran grunge star to Japan. There the group navigates culture shock, stays in a hotel frequented by prostitutes, and plays to mystified audiences in tiny clubs. Written and directed by John Jeffcoat, who also stars as one of the musicians, Big In Japan boasts amazing vitality, with scenes often shot in what appears to be guerrilla style (at airports, on Japanese streets, etc.), and even employing psychedelic animation during a drug-related scene. As the band members surrender to their surroundings, form attachments to people, and struggle to hold onto their collective identity despite outside pressures, they gradually gain a fan base and achieve a dignity that only grows in the aftermath of an earthquake. A fine film about letting go and being open to possibilities, Big In Japan is a winner, set to a fun soundtrack. Highly recommended. (T. Keogh)